2003 Opel Astra vs. 1968 Simca 1000
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Simca 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Simca 1000 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1968 Simca 1000. (38 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Simca 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 560 kg more than 1968 Simca 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Simca 1000 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Simca 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Simca 1000. (59 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Simca 1000. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1968 Simca 1000 has manual transmission. 1968 Simca 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1968 Simca 1000 | |
| Make | Opel | Simca |
| Model | Astra | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 844 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2230 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
